If you love wildlife, big skies, and birds of prey, the Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch in San Diego East County offers a free, up-close way to experience some of North America’s most majestic raptors in winter. Set against the sweeping open landscapes of the Ramona Grasslands Preserve, this seasonal program draws both casual nature lovers and serious birders alike.
What Is Hawk Watch?
Upcoming 2026 Saturdays 10am to 12pm
January 3rd, 10,17, 24,31
February 7,14,21, 28
Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch is a free weekly wildlife education event hosted by the Wildlife Research Institute (WRI) most Saturdays in January and February at Begent Ranch in Ramona. While it shares its name with traditional migration “hawk watches,” this program is more than just counting birds — it’s a hands-on learning experience for all ages
Hawk Watch is an informative educational Biologist Talk and Q& with Falconry or ambassador raptors for you to see up close and personal. The seated program lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. After the presentation there is an option for additional roadside observations of wild raptors and other wildlife including bald eagle nest where you will drive your own car less than 2 miles on paved roads and come and go at your leisure.
Biologists and local expert volunteer observers will help you spot and identify birds and show them to you through our high-powered professional telescopes. In the event of rain, we will still have the educational program inside the barn, but the usual falconry flight displays will not occur in the barn. There is no hiking portion of Hawk Watch, but we recommend wearing sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and going on your own to the nearby Ramona Grassland Preserve hiking trail after the program. Hawk Watch is wheelchair accessible, and we recommend using one if walking on uneven terrain could be a safety hazard for you. We hope you can make it!
Always subject to change for special events, rentals, or closures.
Rising more than 1,300 feet above sea level, Mount Helix Park offers one of the most expansive viewpoints in East County San Diego. Located at the border of La Mesa and Spring Valley, the hilltop park provides panoramic views stretching from downtown San Diego to the Pacific Ocean and east toward the region’s rugged inland terrain.
Mount Helix itself got its name from the helix aspersa snail once found on the hill, a local naturalist curiosity at the time. At the summit sits a stone amphitheater that has served as a community gathering place for decades. The site is best known for its annual Easter sunrise service, along with concerts and civic events held throughout the year. A large cross, visible from miles away, stands near the amphitheater and remains a prominent—if sometimes controversial—feature of the park.
Mount Helix Park is easily accessible by car, with a short paved walkway leading from the parking area to the top. While the park does not offer extensive hiking trails, its accessibility and unobstructed views make it a popular destination for photographers, sightseers, and locals seeking a quiet overlook.
Clear days offer visibility across much of San Diego County, while sunset brings changing colors and city lights that make the park especially popular in the evening hours. Despite its modest size, Mount Helix Park continues to be one of East County’s most recognizable and frequently visited viewpoints.
55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Where the Holidays Meet the Harbor
Meta description: Celebrate the 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights—best viewing spots, photography tips, and why this waterfront tradition remains a holiday favorite.
Suggested categories: San Diego Events, Holiday Traditions, Coastal Photography
Suggested tags: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, San Diego Christmas, Holiday Lights San Diego, Waterfront Events, Night Photography
San Diego’s signature holiday tradition returns to the waterfront, transforming the bay into a moving festival of color, music, and maritime creativity.
A Holiday Tradition on the Water
For more than five decades, the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights has marked the start of the holiday season with a spectacle found nowhere else in Southern California. Now in its 55th year, the parade brings together dozens of privately owned boats—each decorated from bow to stern in synchronized lights and themed displays—that glide across the bay after sunset.
What makes this event special isn’t just the scale of the decorations, but the setting itself. With the downtown skyline, Coronado Bridge, and working harbor as a backdrop, the parade captures the essence of San Diego: festive, coastal, and community‑driven.
How the Parade Works
Participating vessels line up along the bay and follow a designated route that allows spectators on both sides of the water to enjoy the show. Boats range from small sailboats to large yachts, all competing for top honors in categories such as best overall decoration, originality, and best use of lights.
The parade traditionally runs on two consecutive weekend nights, giving locals and visitors multiple chances to experience it. Each evening culminates with a slow, scenic procession that keeps the boats visible long enough for photos, cheers, and the occasional holiday sing‑along.
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region. There is no cost to view the parade.
2025 Parade Theme is Out of This World
The procession will start at 5:30 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.
The APPROXIMATE arrival time of the parade at various locations are:
Shelter Island (start of parade) 5:30 p.m.
Harbor Island 5:45 – 6:15 p.m.
Seaport Village 6:20 – 6:45 p.m.
The Embarcadero 6:50 – 7:15 p.m.
The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park 7:20 – 7:30 p.m.
Ferry Landing on Coronado 7:40 p.m.
Best Places to Watch (and Photograph)
One of the parade’s strengths is accessibility. You don’t need a ticket to enjoy it—just a good vantage point.
Popular viewing locations include:
Seaport Village & the Embarcadero – Ideal for wide shots that include boats and skyline reflections.
Shelter Island – A favorite for photographers, offering unobstructed views and calmer crowds.
Coronado Ferry Landing – Perfect for capturing boats with Coronado lights in the background.
Cesar Chavez Park – A relaxed setting with room to move and frame different angles.
For photography, arrive early to claim a spot and plan to shoot through blue hour, when the remaining daylight blends with the glow of the lights on the water.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to meet a camel up close—right here in San Diego County—there’s a place where curiosity turns into delight. Tucked into the rolling hills of Ramona, Oasis Camel Dairy is one of Southern California’s quirkiest and most memorable rural attractions. Part farm, part sanctuary, and part hands-on learning experience, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve brushed the camel dust off your shoes.
A Day at Oasis Camel Dairy: A Unique Animal Adventure in Ramona, California
What Is Oasis Camel Dairy?
Oasis Camel Dairy is a small, charming farm known for its herd of dromedary camels, gentle giants with expressive faces and plenty of personality. The dairy also produces camel-milk skincare products, hosts open farm days, offers camel rides, and gives visitors a hands-on glimpse into the world of camel care.While camels might seem like animals you’d only meet on an overseas vacation, this Ramona farm makes the experience feel surprisingly personal, accessible, and welcoming.
The Experience: Meeting the Camels
The moment you arrive, you’ll notice how relaxed, open, and friendly the atmosphere is. The camels often gather along the fences, curious about new visitors. During open farm hours, you can:
Feed the camels (watch your fingers—they’re enthusiastic eaters!)Pet them and learn about their behavior and history Watch demonstrations on camel training and milking Ask questions—the staff genuinely loves sharing stories and tips
Kids tend to be mesmerized by how tall and gentle the camels are, while adults appreciate the peaceful vibe and wide-open scenery.
Try a Camel Ride
One of the highlights of visiting Oasis Camel Dairy is the chance to ride a camel. These are short, guided rides perfect for first-timers. You’ll mount from a raised platform, settle into the saddle, and enjoy a slow, smooth loop around the training area.It’s a fun mix of novelty and nostalgia—like riding a piece of history.
More Animals to See
Beyond camels, the farm is full of friendly faces:
Mini sheepSpotted sheepColorful birdsFarm dogsOccasional baby animals depending on the season
It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander slowly, snap photos, and enjoy the simplicity of farm life.
Don’t Skip the Gift Shop
The on-site shop is small but full of treasures. Oasis Camel Dairy is known for its camel milk skincare line, including:
Handcrafted soapsLotion barsCreams and balmsBath itemsEven camel-milk chocolate
Everything is made in small batches, making it great for souvenir shopping.
Why You’ll Love This Day Trip
Oasis Camel Dairy offers a refreshing break from the typical San Diego itinerary:
It’s unique—how often do you get to hang out with camels in California?It’s quiet and peaceful, surrounded by rural hills and open skyIt’s fun for all ages—kids, couples, families, solo travelersYou’ll leave with stories, pictures, and maybe a new favorite farm animal
If you’re exploring Ramona wineries or driving out toward Julian, this stop fits perfectly into a scenic day trip.
Travel Tips for Visiting
Check the schedule: Open farm days rotate monthly.Wear comfortable shoes: Paths are dirt and gravel.Bring water and sunscreen—Ramona gets warm.Arrive early for rides: They’re popular and sometimes limited.Expect a rustic setting: The charm is in its simplicity.
Checkout their website for events, open farm dates, fees and more
Oasis Camel Dairy is one of those rare places that surprises you in the best way. It manages to be educational, relaxing, and genuinely charming—all while giving you a chance to meet animals you’d never expect to find in Southern California. Whether you’re planning a family outing or searching for a unique travel story, this Ramona farm is well worth the trip.
🗓️ Special Free / Discount Days & Programs in October
San Diego’s Kids Free October promotion offers free admission for children 12 and under at over 70 attractions throughout the county during the month of October 2025. This initiative, organized by the San Diego Tourism Authority, aims to provide families with affordable opportunities to explore the region’s diverse cultural and recreational offerings.
Many museums in Balboa Park participate in the promotion:
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat): Up to two kids (12 & under) per adult.
San Diego Air & Space Museum: Kids free with adult.
San Diego Museum of Art: Free general admission on the 2nd Thursday (“Access for All Day”).
Museum of Us: Free admission on the 4th Tuesday of the month for residents.
Comic-Con Museum: Free admission on select days.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum: Free admission on select days.
Timken Museum of Art: Always free admission.
🧪 Science & Discovery
Fleet Science Center: One free child per adult.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps: Free admission on select days.
Children’s Museum of Discovery (Escondido): Free admission on select days. t
🌿 Gardens & Nature
San Diego Botanic Garden: Free admission on select days.
Water Conservation Garden: Free admission on select days.
Japanese Friendship Garden: Free admission on select days.
🏛️ Cultural & Historical Sites
Cabrillo National Monument: Free admission on select days.
Mission San Luis Rey: Free admission on select days.
California Surf Museum: Free admission on select days.
Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum: Free admission on select days.
Children’s Museum of Discovery (Escondido): Free admission on select days.
Please note that many of these attractions require advance registration or a coupon to redeem the free admission. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements for each location before planning your visit.
These are “free days” or admission discounts that apply on specific days or under certain programs.
Museum / Site
Free / Discount Option
Notes / Conditions
San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, USS Midway, New Children’s Museum, etc.
Kids Free October – free admission for children 12 & under with a paid adult
San Diego Zoo Safari Park isn’t your typical zoo. Nestled in the rolling hills of Escondido, California, this 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary brings you face-to-face with animals in environments that mirror their natural habitats — wide, open, and wild.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a family planning a weekend outing, or a wildlife enthusiast, the Safari Park offers something for everyone. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience.
What Makes the Safari Park Unique?
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the expansive cousin of the world-famous San Diego Zoo. While both are operated by the nonprofit San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the Safari Park is more focused on large-scale conservation efforts and giving animals room to roam.
Unlike traditional zoos with enclosures, the Safari Park features massive savanna-like habitats where giraffes, rhinos, antelope, and even African elephants share the land — much like they would in the wild.
Top Attractions & Experiences
🐘 1. Africa Tram
One of the park’s most popular attractions, the Africa Tram is an open-air guided tour through the African Plains. You’ll ride through herds of animals roaming freely, with expert narration providing insight into conservation efforts, animal behavior, and habitat restoration.
🦒 2. Caravan Safari (Add-On Experience)
Want to get even closer? Book a Caravan Safari, where you’ll board a safari truck and feed giraffes right from your hand. It’s an unforgettable experience that brings the wild within reach.
🐅 3. Tiger Trail
The lush, forested Tiger Trail lets you observe majestic Sumatran tigers up close. Designed to mimic their native habitat, the trail winds through waterfalls, observation decks, and glass-viewing areas — perfect for snapping a few memorable photos.
🦏 4. Walkabout Australia
This exhibit transports visitors down under, featuring kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries, and other Australian wildlife. You can even walk through open areas where kangaroos might hop right past you.
🧒 5. Play Areas and Animal Encounters
Families will love the Savanna Cool Zone, a water play area for kids, and the Animal Encounters where you can meet smaller ambassador animals. There’s also the Petting Kraal, where kids can brush goats and sheep.
Conservation at Its Core
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is more than entertainment — it’s a hub of conservation science. The Nikolaus Nature Preserve, Rhino Rescue Center, and Frozen Zoo are just a few examples of the groundbreaking work being done to save endangered species around the world.
Their motto, “We fight extinction,” isn’t just a tagline — it’s a mission backed by research, education, and action.
Tips for Visiting
Plan ahead: Tickets can sell out during peak times. Buy online and check for available add-on safaris.
Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking a lot. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hat, and stay hydrated.
Beat the heat: Mornings and late afternoons are best for animal activity and cooler temps.
Go all-in: If your budget allows, splurge on a behind-the-scenes tour or animal encounter — they’re worth every penny.
Final Thoughts
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Southern California. It’s where nature, adventure, and conservation come together to create a day you won’t forget.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to go on safari — no passport required.
Tucked along the San Diego River in Ocean Beach, the Robb Field Loop Walkway is a hidden gem for walkers, joggers, and cyclists who want a peaceful route with a touch of coastal charm. This easy, flat loop circles the athletic fields of Robb Field and connects to the scenic San Diego River Trail, offering a refreshing mix of open park space, waterfront views, and breezy ocean air.
A Walk with a View
The loop itself is about 1.5 miles, making it the perfect distance for a quick walk, a warm-up jog, or even a leisurely dog stroll. As you circle around, you’ll see wide green lawns filled with soccer players, skateboarders, and families enjoying the day. Look west and the path opens up to the San Diego River estuary, where herons, egrets, and osprey can often be spotted fishing in the calm waters.
Connection to the San Diego River Trail
One of the best parts of the Robb Field Loop is that it connects seamlessly to the San Diego River Trail, a multi-use path stretching inland for miles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can head east along the river toward Mission Valley or west toward the Ocean Beach Dog Beach area.
Family & Fitness Friendly
The walkway is paved and flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. Along the loop you’ll also find exercise stations, benches, and shaded spots—perfect for breaking up your walk with a stretch or water break. Since Robb Field is also home to a skate park, ball fields, and tennis courts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before or after the walk.
Best Time to Visit
Morning and evening are especially beautiful times to stroll the loop. Early risers will enjoy calm air and bird activity along the estuary, while sunset brings soft colors over the river and the silhouettes of palm trees along the horizon.
A Local Favorite
While many visitors head straight to the beach, locals know Robb Field Loop Walkway as a quieter spot for exercise, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s not a strenuous hike, but rather a slice of everyday San Diego life with its mix of nature, recreation, and community.
👉 Tip for photographers: Bring your camera for the golden hour. The estuary, palm trees, and distant Ocean Beach Pier create postcard-worthy shots.
Exploring the Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is renowned for its diverse collection of wildlife, but there’s an equally stunning feature that often flies under the radar—its Orchid Greenhouse. Tucked away within the Zoo’s lush grounds, this hidden gem is a paradise for plant lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful, aromatic escape. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or simply someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, the Orchid Greenhouse offers an enchanting experience that deserves a visit.
Here’s the schedule for 2025 Plant Days and Orchid Odysseyrunning from 10am to 2pm
Friday, July 18, 2025 Friday, August 15, 2025 Friday, September 19, 2025 Friday, October 17, 2025 Friday, November 21, 2025 Friday, December 19, 2025
The Orchid Greenhouse is home to over 1,000 species of orchids, each more captivating than the last. These delicate, vibrant flowers come in every color of the rainbow, ranging from the deep purples of the Cattleya to the soft pastels of the Phalaenopsis. The greenhouse is designed to mimic the orchids’ natural tropical habitat, ensuring that each bloom thrives in the ideal conditions.
Orchid Odyssey San Diego Zoo
Upon entering, you’re immediately greeted by the intoxicating scent of the flowers and the cool, humid air. The space is filled with layers of hanging orchids, potted varieties, and intricate arrangements that transport you to a tropical paradise. The layout is designed to let you take your time as you explore different sections, each dedicated to specific types of orchids from around the world, including Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
The Fascinating World of Orchids
Orchids are among the most diverse plant families on Earth, with more than 25,000 species and over 100,000 hybrids. The Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo showcases many of these varieties, offering a chance to learn about their unique characteristics. Some orchids have flowers that bloom only once a year, while others may only open for a few hours, making the greenhouse a truly dynamic environment.
What makes orchids particularly special is their intricate pollination process, which often involves symbiotic relationships with specific insect species. In the greenhouse, you’ll see firsthand how these delicate flowers attract and rely on their pollinators, adding another layer of wonder to the experience.
Conservation Efforts and Education
While the Orchid Greenhouse is an aesthetic treat, it also serves a vital conservation role. Many of the orchids housed here are endangered or rare species. The San Diego Zoo is deeply involved in global orchid conservation efforts, helping to preserve habitats and promote the cultivation of orchids that are at risk of extinction in the wild.
Visitors to the Orchid Greenhouse can learn about these important initiatives through informational displays and guided tours. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are always on hand to answer questions, explaining how the Zoo’s breeding programs and conservation projects contribute to preserving orchid species for future generations.
A Photography Haven
For photography enthusiasts, the Orchid Greenhouse is a dream come true. The vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the way light filters through the glass panels create perfect conditions for capturing stunning photos. Whether you’re looking to snap close-ups of delicate blooms or create a wider landscape shot of the greenhouse, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to experiment with your camera.
Don’t forget your macro lens if you want to capture the minute details that make orchids so mesmerizing—the texture of the petals, the subtle color gradients, and the tiny pollination structures are all fascinating subjects.
Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: The Orchid Greenhouse is open year-round, but it’s particularly stunning during spring when many orchids are in bloom. If you’re aiming to avoid crowds, visiting early in the day or during weekdays is ideal.
Plan for a Relaxing Experience: The greenhouse is a peaceful retreat within the bustling zoo, so take your time to savor the beauty and tranquility of the space. It’s a perfect spot for a short break from the main zoo attractions.
Join a Guided Tour: If you’re keen to dive deeper into the world of orchids, be sure to join one of the Zoo’s guided tours. These often include fascinating insights into orchid biology, conservation, and the zoo’s work with endangered species.
Conclusion
The Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo is a captivating blend of nature’s beauty, botanical education, and conservation efforts. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a photographer, or simply in search of a serene escape, this hidden sanctuary offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The next time you visit the zoo, don’t miss the chance to explore this blooming oasis—it’s a reminder of how diverse and delicate the natural world truly is.
Tucked along the marina-lined coast of Harbor Island, a quiet revolution takes place every weekend. It doesn’t make headlines or draw big crowds, but it changes lives—one sail at a time. Challenged Sailors San Diego (CSSD) is a volunteer-powered nonprofit that brings the joy and freedom of sailing to individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Every Friday and Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., you’ll find CSSD’s custom fleet of Martin 16 sailboats slicing across San Diego Bay, helmed by people who are often navigating more than just the wind and tide—they’re navigating challenges like paralysis, vision loss, PTSD, or traumatic brain injury. But out on the water, those barriers seem to vanish.
Adaptive Sailing for All
What makes CSSD so unique is their accessibility-first approach. Their Martin 16 sailboats are specially designed with stability and ease of control in mind. Sailors sit in supportive bucket seats, and many use a joystick—or even a sip-and-puff system—for full control of the boat. A trained volunteer companion sits just behind, ready to assist when needed, but always letting the sailor take the lead.
Whether someone is a first-time participant or a returning sailor, CSSD creates a safe and empowering experience. No previous sailing experience is required, and participation is completely free of charge. This is more than recreation—it’s liberation.
“Anywhere You Want to Go”
One of the most moving stories shared by CSSD volunteers is of a woman in a wheelchair who asked, “Where do we go?” Her sailing companion responded, “Anywhere you want.” She burst into tears. It’s a reminder that freedom of movement—something many of us take for granted—is a powerful gift.
CSSD serves a wide range of sailors, from veterans and stroke survivors to young people with cerebral palsy or autism. Some are lifelong San Diegans. Others are visiting just for the day. All leave with a shared sense of accomplishment—and often, a smile that speaks louder than words.
Volunteers at the Helm
CSSD is 100% volunteer-run. Everyone from the companion sailors to the dockhands to the chase boat operators donates their time and energy. Many are lifelong sailors. Others are newcomers drawn to the cause. But all share the same passion: making sailing accessible to everyone.
Interested in volunteering? No sailing experience is needed for many roles, and training is provided. If you’re looking to give back to the community in a way that’s fun, active, and deeply meaningful, this is one crew worth joining.
How to Get Involved
CSSD offers several ways to participate:
Sail with them: If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to try sailing, simply sign up on their website and the team will contact you to schedule a day.
Volunteer: Help on the water or on the dock. All roles are vital, and everyone is welcome.
Donate: CSSD relies on donations to keep the sails full and the experiences free. Every dollar helps bring joy to someone’s day.
Out on the bay, there are no wheelchairs. No labels. Just wind, water, and the thrill of command. Challenged Sailors San Diego reminds us that inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about creating moments of joy, confidence, and connection. And sometimes, that all begins with a simple push away from the dock.
If you’ve ever strolled along the waterfront on Shelter Island and looked up to see a large bird hovering gracefully above the bay, chances are you’ve spotted an osprey. Known as the “fish hawk,” this striking bird of prey has made a comfortable home here in San Diego’s maritime backyard.
A Natural Fisherman in an Urban Setting
Shelter Island offers the perfect blend of natural habitat and human-made infrastructure that ospreys have come to favor. With calm bay waters rich in fish and an abundance of tall structures like light poles, boat masts, and channel markers, ospreys have carved out a niche among the marinas and piers. It’s not uncommon to spot their bulky stick nests perched high above the docks, often near the Shelter Island Launch Ramp or around America’s Cup Harbor.
A Front-Row Seat to Nature
Watching an osprey hunt is a thrilling experience. These raptors soar high, scanning the water with laser-sharp vision. Then, in an instant, they dive feet-first into the bay, emerging with a wriggling fish clutched in their powerful talons. It’s a daily drama that plays out just steps from the sidewalk — and a reminder that even in the heart of the city, nature thrives.
Season of the Osprey
While ospreys can be seen in San Diego year-round, their breeding season typically runs from March to August. During these months, you might see pairs working together to build or repair nests, calling out with sharp whistles, or feeding their young. If you’re lucky, you might spot fledglings learning to fly — a heartening sight that signals the continued health of our coastal ecosystem.
A Conservation Comeback
Ospreys weren’t always so easy to spot. In the mid-20th century, their numbers plummeted due to pesticide use, especially DDT. But since the ban of such chemicals and the protection of nesting sites, osprey populations have rebounded across the U.S., including right here in San Diego Bay. Their presence on Shelter Island is a quiet conservation success story.
Where to Look
For the best osprey-watching:
Walk along the Shelter Island shoreline promenade near the boat launches.
Look up at tall poles or navigation beacons — nesting sites are often quite visible.
Early morning and late afternoon are great times to see them hunting.
Bring your binoculars, a camera, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or casual observer, spotting an osprey in action is always a memorable moment.
Exploring San Diego 